Luxembourg's Octave pilgrimage begins

The annual Octave pilgrimage, which sees pilgrims from Luxembourg, the Greater Region and beyond come to the Grand Duchy, began on Saturday with a 4pm mass at Notre Dame cathedral.

21.04.2013

(CS) The annual Octave pilgrimage, which sees pilgrims from Luxembourg, the Greater Region and beyond come to the Grand Duchy, began on Saturday with a 4pm mass at Notre Dame cathedral.

The pilgrimage honours the Virgin Mary, Comforter of the Afflicted, and attracts tens of thousands of believers every year.

The Octave dates back to the 17th Century, with the centre-piece of the pilgrimage, a carved wooden Madonna, known to date back to 1624.

This year, the Octave takes place under the motto Faith – Hope – Love.

Together with the Octave, the traditional “Mäertchen” on Place Guillaume II has opened its doors to visitors. Traditionally a place for pilgrims to refresh themselves, the market has long since become a popular attraction for locals and tourists.

A must is the fried fish sold at the market. Even the government meets every year for fish and chips.